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Pre-Start Checklist for Aerial Work Platforms

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) says that aerial work platforms must be tested and inspected daily before each use, to ensure the machinery is in safe operating order. Pre-start checklists allow aerial platform operators to know whether or not it is safe to proceed with the lift work.

  1. Controls

    • Lift controls must be tested before the equipment can be used. Testing lift controls tells inspectors if the emergency controls work and how responsive the electrical wiring is. If any control defects are found during the audit, the aerial platform must be pulled back from the work line and repaired before being used again.

    Damage

    • Aerial work platforms must be visually inspected for signs and evidence of wear and tear, rust, corrosion, cracks, holes or other types of damages that can cause the machinery to malfunction.

    Brakes

    • The base of an aerial platform must be locked into place before the platform is extended and elevated into the air. If the aerial platform is part of a truck, the truck's brakes must be set to ensure the platform does not roll out of position.

    Personal Protective Equipment

    • Wearing personal protective equipment (PPE) can save lives on the job. Before the worker gets onto an aerial platform, she must be wearing the appropriate PPE, such as a hard hat and gloves.

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